Chapter 28: Gathering Allies

With King Joon’s tentative support, the atmosphere shifted within the palace. The brothers quickly set plans into motion, determined to gather allies among the nobles before Hojin could strike again.

The following day, Jaeha and Seojin summoned key supporters to a meeting in the grand hall. Seojin’s heart raced as he watched the nobles arrive, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern. He exchanged glances with Jaeha, who stood confidently at his side, exuding a commanding presence.

“Thank you for coming,” Jaeha began, addressing the gathering. “We stand on the precipice of a crisis that threatens not only our bond but the kingdom itself. Hojin seeks to exploit our love, to drive a wedge between us and the throne.”

The nobles murmured among themselves, uncertain but intrigued. Seojin stepped forward, his voice steady. “We cannot allow fear to dictate our futures. Our bond is one of strength and loyalty, and it is time we show the kingdom that.”

“Indeed,” one of the older nobles, Lady Minji, spoke up. “But how do we counter Hojin’s influence? He has powerful allies and a way with words.”

Jaeha’s jaw clenched. “We fight with our truth. We need to demonstrate that our love can unite, not divide. If we allow Hojin to spread his lies unchecked, we risk everything.”

A young nobleman, Lord Eunwoo, leaned forward, concern etched on his face. “And if Hojin retaliates? He won’t stand idle while you gather support.”

“We are prepared for that,” Seojin interjected, his resolve hardening. “We must act swiftly. If we present a united front, we can sway the undecided and undermine Hojin’s influence.”

As discussions continued, strategies began to take shape. The nobles rallied around Jaeha and Seojin, eager to challenge Hojin’s rising power. The brothers felt a surge of hope; they were not alone in this fight.

Later that evening, as the meeting concluded, Jaeha and Seojin stepped out onto the balcony overlooking the palace gardens. The moonlight bathed the scene in silver, a tranquil contrast to the turmoil beneath.

“I think we have a chance,” Seojin said, turning to Jaeha, who stared into the distance, deep in thought.

“We do,” Jaeha replied, his voice low. “But Hojin won’t take our challenge lightly. We must be ready for his next move.”

“Then we prepare,” Seojin said firmly. “Together.”

The following days were a whirlwind of activity as they organized rallies and speeches, spreading their message of unity and love. Each noble they convinced strengthened their resolve, but the shadow of Hojin loomed ever larger.

On the fifth day after their meeting, the news came—a letter from Hojin, challenging Jaeha to a public duel. It was a calculated move, designed to pit brother against brother, to turn the kingdom’s eyes on their conflict.

Jaeha’s expression darkened as he read the letter, crumpling it in his fist. “He thinks he can force me to renounce our bond through violence.”

Seojin felt a cold shiver run down his spine. “This is his game. He wants to make a spectacle of us.”

“Then let’s give him a spectacle,” Jaeha replied, his eyes fierce. “But one that shows our strength, not our weakness.”

Seojin nodded, determination igniting within him. “We won’t let him dictate the terms. We will show the kingdom that love can withstand any challenge.”

As they prepared for the duel, Seojin couldn’t shake the feeling that this confrontation would change everything. The stakes were higher than ever, but together, they were ready to face whatever Hojin had planned.

To be continued...